My favorite part of Tokyo is that everything is theme-based, especially the restaurants. Why should eating be boring? The Japanese are innovating the way they eat and making it the most entertaining experience. Check out my favorite crazy themed restaurants in Tokyo:
Robot Restaurant
1-7-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo
¥8,000 (USD 72), plus food
Flashing lights, thunderous sound effects, and huge robots? Even the name of the restaurant itself makes you curious. Eating with robots around also sounds quite enticing! The robot restaurant is a one of a kind experience. To me, it was a reflection of Power Rangers with the robots, fighting and “hee-ya!” – I really felt like I was reliving my childhood. The show was powerful with electrifying scenes that kept your eyes glued to the action! And you watch all this while enjoying your meal.
You have the option of selecting traditional Japanese meals or you can always opt for the junk food they sell at the start of the show (popcorn and such). The Robot Restaurant is a place you just have to try. I admit it can be a bit cheesy, but it’s okay because cheese is good. 😉 Jokes aside, if you buy tickets online, there is a 500 yen discount.
Kawaii Monster Cafe
4-31-10, Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo
¥700 – ¥2,800 (USD 6-25)
The Kawaii Monster Cafe is undoubtedly unique with its exorbitant seating structures and rainbow bites – found in Harajuku. You can select from the following seating areas: Sweets Go Round, Mushroom Disco, Milk Stand, Bar Experiment, and Mel-Tea room. Once you get escorted to your table by a flashy waitress – a Harajuku girl – you select your meal from a monster tablet with a variety of food. I opted for the rainbow spaghetti (pictured below) and later I had monster dessert.
I would say the best part of the restaurant is the ambience – it’s very happy-go-lucky and it made my day. The food was decorated nicely and was okay, but I would definitely recommend the “colorful poison parfait!”
Alice in Wonderland
Multiple Locations
¥1,000 – ¥4,000 (USD 9-36)
If you’re obsessed with Alice in Wonderland or simply a Disney fan, there are plenty of Alice restaurants scattered around Tokyo and beyond. The restaurants include: Alice in A Labyrinth, Alice in Fantasy Book, Alice in Magical Land, Alice in An Old Castle, Alice in A Dancing Land, Alice in the Silver Screen (Nagoya), and Alice in Fantasy Land (Osaka). They are all in popular locations and offer a unique decor and menu whilst maintaining the magic of Alice’s story.
I experienced the Alice in Fantasy Book restaurant in Shinjuku – it was a wonderful time! The memorable moments include a menu with pop-up pictures, glowing cocktails, fondue dinner, and character-inspired kawaii desserts. Everything was Alice inspired including the wash room!
Ninja Restaurant
2-14-3 Nagatacho, Tokyu Plaza 1F, Chiyoda, Akasaka, Tokyo
¥600 – ¥20,000 (USD 6-180)
The Ninja Restaurant is interesting from the first step in the door. The restaurant is dim and mysterious, and we got escorted by a strong ninja lady. We went through secret doors and had to say some magic words just to get to our table. I was amazed right at the start!
They offer a course menu and also à la carte. My friend and I ordered from both. All the dishes have a creative and sophisticated presentation, however the course menu seems to have more tricks involved (as each new dish is brought to your table). I would say the ambience is chill and entertaining, as you have the chance to interact during your meal. A ninja heads to your table to perform a magic trick during your dining experience as well. Overall, visiting the Ninja Restaurant is amusing from start to finish. The ninjas ensure to escort you outside the restaurant and happily take a picture with you outside.
Maidreamin Maid Cafe
Multiple Locations (largely Akihabara)
¥190 – ¥4,800 (USD 2-43) plus ¥500+ ($5+) entrance fee
No picture of the restaurant here, since the maids mean BUSINESS. You have to pay for each picture and ain’t nobody got (money) for that! Hehe.
Imagine you are walking the streets of Akihabara and two cute girls in maid costumes wink at you. Some lucky fellow may think they won the lottery but…no, these girls don’t want your number! They want to lure you in the maid restaurant of course. You’ll walk in and see the the tables full of people enjoying their meals with bunny ears on their heads and all of a sudden, a sexy maid hands you your own bunny ear headband. Whoopee! If you are into being served by giggly teenagers in maid costumes, this restaurant is for you. The food (à la carte and combos available) is creatively presented and you can enjoy it while watching the maids perform all kinds of cuteness. It would make a great picture if you’re willing to open your wallet.
Owl No Mori (Forest Owl Cafe)
4-5-8 Sotokanda, 5F Chiyoda
¥890 (USD 8)
There are a few owl cafes in Tokyo. The one in Akihabara, Owl No Mori, is called a cafe, but it is more like a petting zoo. The cafe was started by an owl fanatic that has raised these owls as part of the family. It’s called a cafe because you are given a voucher for a drink at the vending machine that is included in your ticket. They do have a variety of drinks including multiple flavors of coffee and tea. Furthermore, the time with the owls is a special experience. Most people spend about an hour with the owls, but no one is timing you and well, it really depends on how busy it is! The best part is you have the memorable opportunity to hold an owl and take endless selfies. Flash!
Other owl cafes include Akiba Fukurou and Owl Village – the differences include more petting interaction and the possibility to feed the owls. The price will change accordingly.
Penguin Bar Ikebukuro
COSMY1 1st floor, 2-38-2 Ikebukuro, Tokyo
¥500 – ¥4,000 (USD 5-36)
How would you like to be close to penguins as you eat your dinner? At this restaurant bar (the first penguin bar in Tokyo), you get to spend time with cute penguins and possibly feed them. How cool is that?! Call the restaurant in advance to ensure you are able to feed the penguins as this is only open to guests during certain parts of the day. Plus, the restaurant opens in the evening at 6PM.
That’s all folks! One last thing…a tip!
Tip: Grab lots of brochures from the airport or the nearest tourist information center. There will probably be at least one coupon for one of these restaurants.
Note: indicated prices may not include tax. Prices may also be lower for children.